Skinner would explain why one student responds positively to receiving a B on a test while another student responds negatively to a B by noting that
a. one student has a stronger superego than the other.
b. one student has more self-efficacy than the other.
c. the students have different personality traits.
d. the students have different histories of reinforcement and punishment.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
d. the students have different histories of reinforcement and punishment.
Explanation:
B.F. Skinner, a leading figure in behaviorism, emphasized that human behavior is shaped by past experiences with reinforcement (rewards) and punishment. According to operant conditioning, individuals learn to associate behaviors with specific consequences, which then influence their future reactions.
In this scenario, one student might react positively to receiving a B because, in the past, similar grades were met with encouragement or rewards from parents, teachers, or peers. If a student has been reinforced for earning a B (e.g., praised for doing well or improving), they are likely to associate this grade with positive feelings.
On the other hand, another student might react negatively to a B if they have a history of punishment or disappointment associated with similar grades. If their parents or teachers have consistently set very high expectations and only reward A grades, they might perceive a B as a failure, leading to frustration or distress.
Skinner’s perspective focuses on external factors rather than innate traits or cognitive processes. He would argue that the differing reactions are not due to personality differences, self-efficacy, or Freudian concepts like the superego, but rather due to how past reinforcement schedules have shaped each student’s expectations and emotional responses.
This explanation aligns with behaviorist principles, which emphasize that behaviors and emotional responses are learned through interactions with the environment. It also underscores the importance of reinforcement patterns in shaping attitudes, motivations, and self-perceptions regarding academic performance.